The BCCI's newly announced retention policy for IPL 2025 has brought back a rule that allows each franchise to retain one 'uncapped' Indian player for no more than Rs 4 crore. This has opened the door for Chennai Super Kings to retain MS Dhoni for another season, thanks to his international break of over 5 years. While some experts see it as an attempt to cash in on Dhoni's brand, others welcome the move as it allows one of the league's major icons to continue playing. Additionally, there are nine other former Indian players who can be retained as 'uncapped' under the new rules.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced a new retention policy for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season, which has allowed the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to retain their iconic captain, MS Dhoni.
Background
The IPL is a professional Twenty20 cricket league in India, which was founded in 2008. Each franchise in the IPL is allowed to retain a maximum of four players ahead of the auction, including three capped (players who have represented their country in international cricket) and one uncapped (players who haven't represented their country).
Previously, uncapped players were retained for free, but the new rules allow franchises to retain them for a maximum of Rs 4 crore ($500,000). This rule change has opened the door for CSK to retain Dhoni, who has been with the franchise since its inception in 2008.
MS Dhoni's Retention
Dhoni has been a key figure for CSK, leading the team to four IPL titles. However, he has not played international cricket for over five years, which would have made him ineligible for retention as a capped player under the old rules.
The new policy allows CSK to retain Dhoni as an uncapped player, despite his vast experience and achievements. This has been a welcome move for CSK fans, who are eager to see their captain continue to play for the franchise.
Other Players Who Qualify for Retention
Apart from Dhoni, there are nine other former Indian players who can be retained as uncapped players under the new rules. These players include:
FAQs
Q1: Why is Dhoni eligible for retention as an uncapped player? A1: Dhoni has not played international cricket for over five years, which makes him eligible for retention as an uncapped player under the new IPL rules.
Q2: Is Dhoni's retention a marketing move by CSK? A2: While Dhoni's retention is undoubtedly a boost to CSK's brand, it also reflects the value he brings to the team as a leader and mentor.
Q3: How does the new retention policy affect other franchises? A3: The new policy allows other franchises to retain more uncapped Indian players, which could give them a competitive advantage in the IPL auction.
Q4: Who are some other former Indian players who could be retained as uncapped players? A4: Other former Indian players who could be retained as uncapped players include Robin Uthappa, Murali Vijay, and Piyush Chawla.
Q5: What is the future of the IPL retention policy? A5: The BCCI is expected to review the retention policy after the 2025 season to assess its effectiveness and make any necessary adjustments.
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